Marlins Reliever Fairbanks Starts, Goes on Paternity Leave

Closer Pete Fairbanks got a rare start to allow him to be with his family for the birth of his child.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 11:40pm

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The Miami Marlins gave reliever Pete Fairbanks, 32, a rare start on Sunday afternoon against the New York Yankees to allow the closer to leave the team and be with his family for the birth of his child. Fairbanks threw 27 pitches in the first inning before departing the game.

Why it matters

Paternity leave is becoming more common in Major League Baseball, allowing players to be present for the birth of their children without having to miss significant playing time. This gesture by the Marlins organization demonstrates their commitment to supporting their players' family lives.

The details

Fairbanks, the Marlins' regular closer, was given the start on Sunday to enable him to leave the team and be with his wife for the birth of their child. He threw 27 pitches in the first inning before departing the game.

  • Fairbanks made the rare start on Sunday, April 5, 2026.

The players

Pete Fairbanks

A 32-year-old relief pitcher for the Miami Marlins who was given a rare start to allow him to go on paternity leave.

Miami Marlins

The professional baseball team based in Miami, Florida that allowed Fairbanks to make a rare start so he could be with his family for the birth of his child.

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The takeaway

The Marlins' decision to give Fairbanks a start so he could be present for the birth of his child demonstrates the growing acceptance and importance of paternity leave in professional sports, allowing players to balance their careers and family lives.